Two weeks meditation retreat and adventure in the Himalayan hills of India

 1-14 DECEMBER, 2023

Experience the majestic Himalaya

In a meditative state of mind right in the middle of ‘The Little Lhasa’

Tibetan masters, Indian yogis and I will guide you troughout the retreat, not only in meditation and yoga sessions, but as a locally experienced westerner I will show you the real Himalaya and the tibetan culture in depth. We try to visit H.H. The Dalai Lama, Karmapa, Rinpoches, Lamas and tibetan monasteries.

You will enjoy invigorating mindfullness sessions with a majestic in-depth feeling of Himachal Pradesh. We will live in McLeod Ganj aka ‘The Little Lhasa’. Discover its beauty through various excursions, discovering treks and tours, indulge in delectable cuisine, and simply allow yourself to take in the pure bliss that this overwhelming landscape and culture can truly offer.

Enjoy the shy but very rich culture of the real! Spiritual Indian countryside backed up with the real tibetan culture densed into a small town. This retreat is perfectly suited for a delightful meditation getaway concatenated with adventurous programmes! We will have a cooling meditation experience with a comfortable climate, astonishing surroundings, and an extremely old culture of compassion, wisdom and happiness.

Highlights

What is included in the price

  • Accommodation in a yogic hotel in the Himalayas for 14 nights

  • Practices for 14 days

  • Additional yoga classes

  • Mindfulness meditation sessions 3 times per day (optional)

  • Teachings on various types of spiritual techniques from around Asia

  • Programs and adventures in the Himalayas

  • Transfer from Delhi airport to the accommodation

  • Domestic transportations

Retreat Location

Up at the foot of the Himalayas

The spirit of the Himalayas spreads out in the fresh air, blurred with views of the majestic mountains. The presence of the Dalai Lama and the monks establishes a deep atmosphere. The scent of Tibetan smoke, the jingling and rhythmic drumming of the ceremonies, puts us in some mystical distance, a distant dimension.

It is located 2000 meters above sea level at the foot of the Himalayas in Mcleod Ganj, Himachal Pradesh, about 500 Km north of Delhi. The weather is cool, the air is fresh, especially after the dusty and hot Delhi which is about 11 hours away by bus. It is not a distance in India. Kind of like a short night trip with delicate snack on the way. Of course we will take comfortable wehicle as the road can be difficult sometimes.

It is just as a favorite resort for Indian tourists as it is for Western Buddhist pilgrims, students, climbers. It can be said that it is quite multicultural in this respect as well. And while we’ll get back to the food yet, it’s essential to mention that the smells prevalent on the streets and the flavors of the food offered by heated restaurants and street vendors are so varied that there’s certainly no proper term for it. 

Yet in fact and in its depth, Tibetan culture and Indian yogic perception and spirituality define the mood, with its peace, love, harmony, acceptance, knowledge, modesty, depth, honesty and simplicity. It simply says so much that its nickname is “The Little Lhasa”. Home of the Dalai Lama.

Retreat Accommodation

Himalayan simplicity with a bit of luxury

Nestled in the mountains of Mc Leod Ganj. It is about 100 meters from the home of H. H. The Dalai Lama and his temple. You can even hear the sounds of the ceremonies, and have a luck to meet up with His Holiness by chance. From the rooftop you’ll have a breathtaking view to the Himalayas and its valleys.

The rooms are designed to let in light, air, and the sounds of nature. A restful stay with breathtaking views from your private balcony with many peaceful sleeps are guarenteed. The Restaurant and in-room dining service ensures you have all the conveniences at your doorstep. When not in your room, you can engage your palette in the international Ayurvedic menu, read in the library, make new friends with fellow travelers, or take a yoga class up in our rooftop called Sky Shala. Overlooking the Himalayas and stunning Dharamshala Valley.

The Studio apartment comes fully equipped with a comfortable bed, bed side furniture, a dresser, a lounge area, a kitchenette (with utensils and all),  a private balcony, and a private bathroom. The Deluxe Suite features a comfortable bed, bed side furniture, a dresser, a lounge area, your own private balcony, and a private bathroom. Buddha art work adorns the walls. A comfortable bed, bed side furniture, a dresser, your own private balcony, and a private bathroom make The Budget Room suitable for the traveller on the go, yet peaceful, clean, and modest luxury is inevitable here as well.

Tas Bognar

Leader and teacher

TAS BOGNAR will be the one who walks you safely down the road and introduces you to the mysteries of the field of consciousness. He will be your guide for the whole trip technically.

He will be your leader as he has known Mcleod Ganj and the Tibetans for many years. His daughter grew up there from the age of two, lived there for a long time, went to kindergarten for the first time…many memories about that.

For 15 years now, he has been teaching around the world the aspects of Eastern spiritual techniques that show the possibilities of traveling in the field of consciousness far beyond our expectations. He will give teachings on the retreat, an insight into the mystical deep mindfield travel.

Chamtrul Rinpoche

Grandmaster of Tibetan buddhism

CHAMTRUL RINPOCHE Lobsang Gyatso was recognized as the reincarnation of the second Katok Chamtrul Pema Nangsal Dorje Rinpoche from Mardo Tashi Choeling Monastery. He is a great master of Tummo, Dzogchen, Tong-len and various more teaching that is a huge jewel on our planet. 

We are fortunate to be part of his knowledge, experience, and because he speaks English well, he passes on his teachings to his disciples around the world in a simple, understandable way. 

Hes radiance and presence exude absolute harmony and suggest deep knowledge. His personal transmission of teachings is very captivating.

Vijay Amar

Great teacher of Yoga

VIJAY AMAR will be our yoga teacher after  practicing Yoga for more than 45 years and teaching for more than 30 years.

The fruit of many years of study, practice, and teaching in both Hatha and Ashtanga Vinyasa has been the creation of Universal Hatha Yoga which gives the student a depth in understanding, relaxation and self-healing. This style of Yoga utilises physical postures (asanas), breathwork (pranayama) and meditation techniques to liberate the vital energy of the body and mind.

He regularly teaches around the globe, but his present home in Dharamsala as a teacher in all of these disciplines. He is happy to impart his knowledge and wisdom to the many students who seek him out from across the world.

Food

Arranged chaos of smells and tastesl

There is an amazing variety of food on offer, but of course Tibetan and Indian cuisine dominates. It can be said that the menu is very multicultural: German, Italian, French, Andalusian, American, etc. You can find everything in a very small place.

You can dine in the restaurant with a roof terrace or sit in a uniquely cozy Tibetan or Indian restaurant. You can eat a homemade Tibetan breakfast on the street with pilgrims who philosophize with Indian tea, and then you suddenly come across a visibly experienced great Tibetan master … or a cow … or both.

Each day will be like this

A day in a nutshell

It is natural that in addition to your daily routines, you will have spontaneous discoveries full of amazement. Your photos, breakfast, your favorite tea stall, and more. But there will be some programs that are “mandatory”. In addition, our day is mainly divided into two parts: there will be more active programs in the morning and lessons in the afternoon. All this is interwoven with daily exercises, meditations, and yoga classes.

  • Early meditation in your room or on the rooftop 6:00 am.

  • Breakfast 7:30 am.

  • Various adventures daily starts usually 9:00 am.

  • Lunch 1:00 – 2.30 pm.

  • Leisure and/or meditation time..

  • Teachings daily usually between 3:00 – 6:00 pm

  • Dinner and explanation of the next day 8:00 pm (important to participate).

  • Silent sunset meditation individually or with the group.

It is highly understood if you don’t have the mood to meditate or practice .No worries, everything is up to you! Take your time, go with the flow. If you don’t want to participate in an adventure that’s all right. If you don’t want to join to the evening explanation of the next day that’s fine…but you’ll miss lots of important information that you’ll need to know for sure!

Teachings

Practical insight into the field of consciousness

Each afternoon we will be taught mostly Eastern techniques that can be used in everyday life. The practices we learn come mainly from Tibet, India, Nepal and Thailand. Be it meditative intuition or professional clairvoyance. Conscious dreaming or conscious creation in a meditative state of consciousness. We will learn several techniques from meditations that can be used in everyday situations to professional meditations.

We will learn several techniques that we will be able to use in everyday life and in our profession. Things that will affect our relationship, our self-esteem, our satisfaction, the achievement of our goals, and so on for the rest of our lives.

Not only will we learn all of these techniques on a theoretical level, but we will have to practice them all on the spot, as we will immediately have questions to answer and thus correct / improve the resuscitation of our innate abilities.

Meditations

Flow within step by step

We first tune in to the environment, which can be said without any exaggeration to be mind-boggling, stunning, captivating, enchanting, hypnotic. This is guaranteed to set the mood.

We are introduced to several styles of meditation, but it is recommended to fuse them all into our own nature. There are no requirements and no expectations. Everyone is moving at their own pace on the road, no stress.

Two things will happen day by day: First, we incorporate the action-based mediated lifestyle into our daily lives. And second, we learn different techniques from experienced masters that we can’t get in the West, in such a first-hand, in such an authentic environment. Of course all the techniques of the mind and the deep mindfield will be backed by Yoga sessions, to have our body and mind aware enough to consume the informations, and to be able to practice the Yoga of the Mind.

Adventures and activities

In the majestic Himalaya

I have to remind you that we are going to India, to the Himalayas, to the Tibetans, to the middle of a sinking Atlantis … in a cultural sense. From the very first moment, we will have plenty of exciting programs that will activate us physically, spiritually and mentally In India, something strange happens every second.

Nonetheless, we take advantage of the opportunities offered by the area, which have an amazing impact, mainly due to the mountain world. We can go hiking in the mountains with stunning views. We visit waterfalls and lakes. We will camp at one of the mountain tops for one night if we feel like. We can fly in the sky like eagles with a paraglider, or we can simply meditate on a rock at sunset.

We will have plenty of interesting programs that are sure to be lifelong. Unprepared tourists, or plain travelers, unfortunately only realize afterwards from the internet how much thing they missed while they were there in the Himalayas. We know in advance what we are going to do, and we can also get to places where the ordinary tourist is not used to “getting lost”.

It is on the bucket list for millions of people and it is just right here in our hands for us!

Included excursions

The temple of H. H. the Dalai Lama

I must remind you that it is true that the Temple and residence of His Majesty are only a few meters away, yet the feeling of being seen not only from its window but directly entering the temple is different. It’s a whole new dimension especially at ceremonies. The colourful site crowded with tradition rituals makes the place a wonderhouse.

Trek to Triund

One of the most important things to do in Mcleodganj is Trekking. Just behind the Dhauladhar range stands tall Triund, a 9000 Ft range with the 9 Km trek trail on this mountain is a breathtaking experience. After the tiring optional expedition you can also plan an overnight stay at the Forest Rest House on top of the ridge.

Visit Namgyal Monastery

The Namgyal Monastery is well known for being the biggest Tibetan sanctuary outside Tibet and also the residence of the Dalai Lama. It was established in 16th century and since then it serves to preserve the Tibetan culture and customs.

It enlightens the monks who reside here by imparting knowledge based on philosophy, sacred arts, meditation and debates. This Monastery is bestowed with a pristine atmosphere, making it an ideal place to attain peace. It also showcases splendid statues of Buddha, which are highly admirable. This Monastery not only intrigues religionists but also other tourists and admirers.

Dharamkot village

Gleaming with the magical spiritual vibes, this village near Mcleodganj and Dharamshala is popular known as Tel Aviv of India. An unconventional place to explore, this village is  one of the most popular Buddhist destinations in India.

Maintaining its charm along with air for the curious knowledge-seeking tourists, Dharamkot brings in a lot of people from all over the place giving them a dip into the rich culture. Not just tranquility, this yoga village is also a base camp for several trekking trails including the Triund and Indrahar Pass. With the perfect blend for all, this place savours spectacular vacations for all.

Dal lake tour

A boat ride in the Dal Lake amidst the striking green Deodar Forests is one of the unique things to do in Mcleodganj. Brimming with tranquilizer vibes floating over the calm waters, this boat ride is something you cannot miss out in Dal lake The lake is also considered sacred because of the Lord Shiva temple on its banks.

Bhagsu falls

Being in closed vicinity of the popular Bhagsunath Temple of Lord Shiva, this waterfall is known as the Bhagsu Falls. Spending a day here is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Mcleodganj. It is not only famous as a picnic spot but is also a significant place of pilgrimage. The sight of this 20 M tall waterfall is like a heaven.

Tibetan museum

Being a combination of the conventional and contemporary Tibetan architecture, the Tibetan Museum in Mcleodganj is very unique. Located inside the Tsuglagkhang complex, the museum walls have a gentle yellow and white colour scheme that adds on to its quaint beauty.  It is a platform where one can observe and be in awe of the Tibetan historical documents, manuscripts, Thangka images, pottery and other handicraft items. 

Besides that there are also photographs, interviews and video records that explain and file the Chinese intervention in Tibet and the consequent migration of Tibetans. If you are admirers of art and are also fascinated by history then you could purchase paintings, artefacts and handicrafts from the Museum shops as souvenirs.

Nechung monastery

The Nechung Monastery, a Buddhist monastery plays a historical role as it was the seat of the Tibetan State Oracle until 1959. It is located downhill from the Drepung Monastery. Nechung is an eerie place associated with possession, exorcism and other pre-Buddhist rites.  

The monastery has a few strange, striking and imaginative murals lining the walls of the inner courtyard. Paintings of flayed humans held from the rafters by serpents, figures with dangling eyeballs, disembodied heads and legs, wrathful deities with garlands of skulls, and other artwork decorate the walls here. Nechung Monastery features an array of mythical animals, such as murals of snakes and dragons coiled around support beams in the main hall. It will indeed be one of the best things to do in Mcleodganj.

Norbulingka Institute

The Norbulingka Institute was established in 1988 with its primary focus being teaching and preserving traditional Tibetan art forms. It’s a beautiful and fascinating place to visit to watch artisans at work on woodcarving, metal statue-making, thangka painting, and embroidery. The institute produces high-quality art objects, clothing, accessories and home furnishings. 

A cultural center, the Norbulingka Institute is a place reflecting nature’s beauty and bounty. Water cascading through Japanese styled gardens and birds of different species flying among the treetops; it’s a scenic sight to behold.

Kora Circuit

Taking 25-minutes of the ritual circuit or Kora around the outside of the Tsuglagkhang Complex is one of the most popular activities to do in Mcleodganj. Take the 1.5 Km path draped in flags which turns into a road halfway the circuit, consisting of a display of the collection of chortens, prayer wheels, and the pictures of more than 130 Tibetan people who self-sacrificed themselves in protest against Chinese Rule. 

Set against a tranquilizer setting this is something that will help you get a break from the worldly worries you’re tangled in. It is highly recommended to have a meditation session on the rocks to completely inhale all its energies.

Naddi view point

Exploring the Naddi View Point is one of the mandatory things to do in Mcleodganj. Giving you the closest view of the majestic Dhauladhar Range without the muscle-tiring experience of trekking, walking or climbing, this place is a perfect spot for sightseeing. The weather is mostly cloudy here, giving more reasons to visit this place. Make sure you try the authentic local food of the cafes and food points around the destination while you enjoy the breathtaking view of the Himalayas.

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts

Established by His Holiness, Dalai Lama, the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA) is one of the leading cultural institutes keeping traditional Tibetan dance, culture, art, music and colorful folk opera alive. Travelers must enjoy cultural shows at TIPA while visiting Mcleodganj. 

Folk songs tell stories of interesting characters like kings, fools, yogis, and witches. Instruments like cymbals and drums add to the enthralling ambiance and make it a treasured experience for travelers.

Costs and booking

Retreat – 1,100 USD

  • Accomodation fo 14 nights in the Himalayas

  • Teachings on spiritual practices and meditations

  • Additional meditations an Yoga classes

  • Programs and adventures

  • Domestic transportations with A/C minivans

 

Flight – 700 USD approximately

  • There is no big difference in the price of a flight whether you are flying from England or from America.
  • Be aware of additional costs at the airport (eg. bag wrapping 20 USD)

 

Additional costs – 200 USD approximately

  • It’s up to you how much you spend on yourself, but surely Thailand is cheaper than you think.
  • You will buy some clotches, or yoga mat, or shoes if needed for you.
  • Even tough you have nothing to pay for food, you’ll probably buy something in the local store.
  • There is no need to apply a visa to Thailand if you stay not more than 30 days.

 

What’s included

  • Transportation from Delhi airport to Dharamsala by minivan
  • Accommodation in the Himalayan Yogic Hotel for 14 days
  • Daily 3 meditations and daily yoga sessions
  • Teachings on the mindfield practices
  • Included programs and adventures

 

What’s not included

  • Additional meals and drinks
  • Additional activities and services
  • Airfare
  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Personal expenses

 

Services

  • ATM / banking nearby
  • Bike and motorcycle rental nearby
  • Currency exchange nearby
  • Laundry service nearby
  • Free Wi-Fi on the spot

 

Application process

  • The application deadline is November 15.
  • Send an email to himalayanmeditationretreat@gmail.com to arrange an online appointment.
  • We chat first in person using Skype or Messenger.
  • The deposit must then be sent by bank transfer or Paypal.
  • You will have to buy the flight ticket and the insurance. We will discuss the exact details (type of insurance, date of flight and exact arrival location, ect.)
  • Under current law of India, it is necessary to register online. Here you will need to know a few things in advance, and you will need to have some documents to register smoothly. Due to the changes in the current pandemic, we are constantly informing you about changes in the law.

 

Contact and Information

More information

himalayanmeditationretreat@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/Dharamsala-Himalayan-Meditation-Retreat-113538943697442/

The retreat is technically organized by Ram Yoga House.

Passenger information is the sole responsibility of Tas Bognár as a passenger attendant and teacher.